H. Lucina 1565 - 1630

This engraving, H. Lucina, was created by Antonio Tempesta in the late 16th or early 17th century. The image is brought to life through a printmaking technique: an image is etched into a metal plate, inked, and then pressed onto paper. The network of fine lines that define the figures, drapery, and landscape, highlights the skill involved in this form of image-making. But beyond the artist's technique, the print has a social significance. The possibility of reproducing images, like H. Lucina, meant that artworks could be circulated widely, far beyond the circles of wealthy patrons. Tempesta's choice of printmaking allowed for a democratization of art, making religious and mythological scenes accessible to a wider audience. When we consider H. Lucina, it's important to recognize that the impact of printmaking extends far beyond the image itself, influencing its availability, affordability, and cultural relevance.